Cannabis Possession Lawyer Albemarle County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A simple marijuana possession charge in Albemarle County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense at the Albemarle County General District Court. Our cannabis possession lawyer Albemarle County team offers 24/7 consultations. Contact us at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription. The specific statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, defines the offense and its penalties. Possession of up to one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. The law also outlines procedures for first-offender programs and expungement eligibility under certain conditions.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Albemarle County
An effective defense begins with a detailed review of the stop, search, and seizure. Police must have a valid legal basis for both. Our cannabis arrest lawyer Albemarle County team examines whether your rights under the Fourth Amendment were violated. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the substance. We also explore eligibility for Virginia’s first-offender program under Va. Code § 18.2-251, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms.
- Schedule a 24/7 consultation to discuss the details of your arrest and charges.
- Our attorney will obtain and review all police reports, body cam footage, and lab analysis.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge any unlawful search or procedural error.
- We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or first-offender program.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we prepare for and represent you at trial in Albemarle County General District Court.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Possession
In Albemarle County, simple marijuana possession (under one ounce) is a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible DMV points | Criminal record, employment issues |
| Possession >1 oz & <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Subsequent Offense | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible DMV points | Enhanced penalties likely |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex cases. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local procedures at the Albemarle County General District Court and the strategies of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results
Our firm has documented results in Albemarle County, including cases where charges were reduced or amended to achieve a better outcome for the client. For example, we have successfully amended charges like driving on a suspended license to a non-criminal traffic offense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Albemarle County Cannabis Possession Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in Albemarle County, including the Charlottesville area, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 29. If you need a cannabis possession lawyer Albemarle County near the University of Virginia or Downtown Charlottesville, contact us 24/7.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365. Meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
It depends. Possession of one ounce or less is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1.
Can I get a first-time marijuana possession charge dismissed in Albemarle County?
Yes. Virginia’s first-offender program under Va. Code § 18.2-251 allows for dismissal upon successful completion of terms like probation, community service, and drug education. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Albemarle County can petition the court for this disposition.
What should I do if I’m arrested for cannabis possession?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with police. Contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Albemarle County as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protect your rights.
How can a lawyer help with a marijuana charge?
A lawyer can challenge the legality of the stop and search, negotiate for a reduced charge or first-offender program, and represent you at trial. An experienced attorney understands local court procedures and prosecutor tendencies, which is critical for a favorable outcome.
Where are Albemarle County marijuana cases heard?
Misdemeanor marijuana possession cases are heard at the Albemarle County General District Court located at 350 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902. Felony possession cases start there for a preliminary hearing before potentially moving to Circuit Court.
For representation from a skilled cannabis possession lawyer Albemarle County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today. We also assist clients with related matters like DUI defense in Albemarle County and criminal defense in Henrico County. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.